Photos by Angela Gonzalez Participants of the 5K begin their run in the Red Baron Arena at Marshall Area Dementia Awareness Network’s event, “A Walk for Memories” Thursday.

MARSHALL — The Marshall Area Dementia Awareness Network held a “A Walk for Memories” event with a 5K and activities to honor those who have been affected by dementia on Thursday.

A crowd of adults, children and even dogs, waited in anticipation for the 5K run to begin. Many of the children waited at the edge of the purple taped starting line. Finally a “Go!” was shouted and everyone was off.

Viewers cheered on the sidelines as they watched mothers pushing their strollers, bikes being pedaled and kids zooming by. Almost all the participants wore purple — the official color of the Alzheimer’s movement.

The Red Baron Arena was covered in purple during the Marshall Area Dementia Awareness Network’s event, “A Walk for Memories.”

Besides the run, there was music, food, booths and giveaways for the community to enjoy. All to help raise awareness and money for the network.

“We wanted to honor those who have dealt with Alzheimer’s and dementia,” Jaen Weilage, a volunteer, said. “To let them know that the community is behind them and walking with them in that journey.”

Places like Avera, Heritage Pointe Senior Living, Moments Hospice and more had booths with fun activities and resources for those who need help with memory loss.

“So many people think they’re alone,” Jan Mason, assistant living director of Boulder Creek, said. “They don’t know how many resources there are. We want to get as much information out there.”

Many of the volunteers and attendees knew firsthand what Alzheimer’s and dementia could do to a person and their family.

“I’m here because I’ve seen what dementia does,” said Yvonne Caron, a volunteer at the event and at Boulder Creek. “I feel like I owe them (Boulder Creek residents) smiles everyday.”

Joyce Persoon, whose mother has dementia, was happy to be with others who understood.

“It’s nice seeing others who are dealing with the same things,” Persoon said. “It’s nice to get more knowledge and to have support.”

Near the end of the event, the 5K participants slowly came trickling in. Runners were now jogging, kids were walking and dogs stuck their tongues out, panting. They all came in red and tired, but smiled as the crowd applauded for them as they crossed the finish line.